Le Morte Darthur
by
Thomas Malory
Part 7 out of 9
were called treason.
<312>
So when King Anguish understood his accusing he was passing
heavy, for he knew Sir Blamore de Ganis that he was a noble
knight, and of noble knights come. Then the King of Ireland was
simply purveyed of his answer; therefore the judges gave him
respite by the third day to give his answer. So the king
departed unto his lodging. The meanwhile there came a lady by
Sir Tristram's pavilion making great dole. What aileth you, said
Sir Tristram, that ye make such dole? Ah, fair knight, said the
lady, I am ashamed unless that some good knight help me; for a
great lady of worship sent by me a fair child and a rich, unto
Sir Launcelot du Lake, and hereby there met with me a knight, and
threw me down from my palfrey, and took away the child from me.
Well, my lady, said Sir Tristram, and for my lord Sir Launcelot's
sake I shall get you that child again, or else I shall be beaten
for it. And so Sir Tristram took his horse, and asked the lady
which way the knight rode; and then she told him. And he rode
after him, and within a while he overtook that knight. And then
Sir Tristram bade him turn and give again the child.
CHAPTER XXI
How Sir Tristram rescued a child from a knight, and
how Gouvernail told him of King Anguish.
THE knight turned his horse and made him ready to fight. And
then Sir Tristram smote him with a sword such a buffet that he
tumbled to the earth. And then he yielded him unto Sir Tristram.
Then come thy way, said Sir Tristram, and bring the child to the
lady again. So he took his horse meekly and rode with Sir
Tristram; and then by the way Sir Tristram asked him his name.
Then he said, My name is Breuse Saunce Pite. So when he had
delivered that child to the lady, he said: Sir, as in this the
child is well remedied. Then Sir Tristram let <313>him go again
that sore repented him after, for he was a great foe unto many
good knights of King Arthur's court.
Then when Sir Tristram was in his pavilion Gouvernail, his man,
came and told him how that King Anguish of Ireland was come
thither, and he was put in great distress; and there Gouvernail
told Sir Tristram how King Anguish was summoned and appealed of
murder. So God me help, said Sir Tristram, these be the best
tidings that ever came to me this seven years, for now shall the
King of Ireland have need of my help; for I daresay there is no
knight in this country that is not of Arthur's court dare do
battle with Sir Blamore de Ganis; and for to win the love of the
King of Ireland I will take the battle upon me; and therefore
Gouvernail bring me, I charge thee, to the king.
Then Gouvernail went unto King Anguish of Ireland, and saluted
him fair. The king welcomed him and asked him what he would.
Sir, said Gouvernail, here is a knight near hand that desireth to
speak with you: he bade me say he would do you service. What
knight is he? said the king. Sir, said he, it is Sir Tristram de
Liones, that for your good grace that ye showed him in your lands
will reward you in this country. Come on, fellow, said the king,
with me anon and show me unto Sir Tristram. So the king took a
little hackney and but few fellowship with him, until he came
unto Sir Tristram's pavilion. And when Sir Tristram saw the king
he ran unto him and would have holden his stirrup. But the king
leapt from his horse lightly, and either halsed other in their
arms. My gracious lord, said Sir Tristram, gramercy of your
great goodnesses showed unto me in your marches and lands: and at
that time I promised you to do you service an ever it lay in my
power. And, gentle knight, said the king unto Sir Tristram, now
have I great need of you, never had I so great need of no
knight's help. How so, my good lord? said Sir Tristram. I shall
tell you, said the king: I am summoned and appealed from my
country for the <3I4>death of a knight that was kin unto the good
knight Sir Launcelot; wherefore Sir Blamore de Ganis, brother to
Sir Bleoberis hath appealed me to fight with him, outher to find
a knight in my stead. And well I wot, said the king, these that
are come of King Ban's blood, as Sir Launcelot and these other,
are passing good knights, and hard men for to win in battle as
any that I know now living. Sir, said Sir Tristram, for the good
lordship ye showed me in Ireland, and for my lady your daughter's
sake, La Beale Isoud, I will take the battle for you upon this
condition that ye shall grant me two things: that one is that ye
shall swear to me that ye are in the right, that ye were never
consenting to the knight's death; Sir, then said Sir Tristram,
when that I have done this battle, if God give me grace that I
speed, that ye shall give me a reward, what thing reasonable that
I will ask of you. So God me help, said the king, ye shall have
whatsomever ye will ask. It is well said, said Sir Tristram.
CHAPTER XXII
How Sir Tristram fought for Sir Anguish and overcame his
adversary, and how his adversary would never yield him.
NOW make your answer that your champion is ready, for I shall die
in your quarrel rather than to be recreant. I have no doubt of
you, said the king, that, an ye should have ado with Sir
Launcelot du Lake-- Sir, said Sir Tristram, as for Sir
Launcelot, he is called the noblest knight of the world, and wit
ye well that the knights of his blood are noble men, and dread
shame; and as for Bleoberis, brother unto Sir Blamore, I have
done battle with him, therefore upon my head it is no shame to
call him a good knight. It is noised, said the king, that
Blamore is the hardier knight. Sir, as for that let him be, he
shall never be refused, an as he were the best knight that now
beareth shield or spear.
<315>
So King Anguish departed unto King Carados and the kings that
were that time as judges, and told them that he had found his
champion ready. Then by the commandment of the kings Sir Blamore
de Ganis and Sir Tristram were sent for to hear the charge. And
when they were come before the judges there were many kings and
knights beheld Sir Tristram, and much speech they had of him
because that he slew Sir Marhaus, the good knight, and because he
for-jousted Sir Palamides the good knight. So when they had
taken their charge they withdrew them to make them ready to do
battle.
Then said Sir Bleoberis unto his brother, Sir Blamore: Fair dear
brother, remember of what kin we be come of, and what a man is
Sir Launcelot du Lake, neither farther nor nearer but brother's
children, and there was never none of our kin that ever was
shamed in battle; and rather suffer death, brother, than to be
shamed. Brother, said Blamore, have ye no doubt of me, for I
shall never shame none of my blood; howbeit I am sure that yonder
knight is called a passing good knight as of his time one of the
world, yet shall I never yield me, nor say the loath word: well
may he happen to smite me down with his great might of chivalry,
but rather shall he slay me than I shall yield me as recreant.
God speed you well, said Sir Bleoberis, for ye shall find him the
mightiest knight that ever ye had ado withal, for I know him, for
I have had ado with him. God me speed, said Sir Blamore de
Ganis; and therewith he took his horse at the one end of the
lists, and Sir Tristram at the other end of the lists, and so
they feutred their spears and came together as it had been
thunder; and there Sir Tristram through great might smote down
Sir Blamore and his horse to the earth. Then anon Sir Blamore
avoided his horse and pulled out his sword and threw his shield
afore him, and bade Sir Tristram alight: For though an horse
hath failed me, I trust to God the earth will not fail me. And
then Sir Tristram alighted, and dressed him unto battle; and
there they lashed together strongly as racing and tracing,
foining and dashing, many sad strokes, that the kings and knights
had great <316>wonder that they might stand; for ever they fought
like wood men, so that there was never knights seen fight more
fiercely than they did; for Sir Blamore was so hasty that he
would have no rest, that all men wondered that they had breath to
stand on their feet; and all the place was bloody that they
fought in. And at the last, Sir Tristram smote Sir Blamore such
a buffet upon the helm that he there fell down upon his side, and
Sir Tristram stood and beheld him.
CHAPTER XXIII
How Sir Blamore desired Tristram to slay him, and how Sir
Tristram spared him, and how they took appointment.
THEN when Sir Blamore might speak, he said thus: Sir Tristram de
Liones, I require thee, as thou art a noble knight, and the best
knight that ever I found, that thou wilt slay me out, for I would
not live to be made lord of all the earth, for I have liefer die
with worship than live with shame; and needs, Sir Tristram, thou
must slay me, or else thou shalt never win the field, for I will
never say the loath word. And therefore if thou dare slay me,
slay me, I require thee. When Sir Tristram heard him say so
knightly, he wist not what to do with him; he remembering him of
both parties, of what blood he was come, and for Sir Launcelot's
sake he would be loath to slay him; and in the other party in no
wise he might not choose, but that he must make him to say the
loath word, or else to slay him.
Then Sir Tristram stert aback, and went to the kings that were
judges, and there he kneeled down to-fore them, and besought them
for their worships, and for King Arthur's and Sir Launcelot's
sake, that they would take this matter in their hands. For, my
fair lords, said Sir Tristram, it were shame and pity that this
noble knight that yonder lieth should be slain; for ye hear well,
shamed will he not be, and I pray to God that he never be slain
nor shamed for <317>me. And as for the king for whom I fight
for, I shall require him, as I am his true champion and true
knight in this field, that he will have mercy upon this good
knight. So God me help, said King Anguish, I will for your sake;
Sir Tristram, be ruled as ye will have me, for I know you for my
true knight; and therefore I will heartily pray the kings that be
here as judges to take it in their hands. And the kings that
were judges called Sir Bleoberis to them, and asked him his
advice. My lords, said Bleoberis, though my brother be beaten,
and hath the worse through might of arms, I dare say, though Sir
Tristram hath beaten his body he hath not beaten his heart, and I
thank God he is not shamed this day; and rather than he should be
shamed I require you, said Bleoberis, let Sir Tristram slay him
out. It shall not be so, said the kings, for his part adversary,
both the king and the champion, have pity of Sir Blamore's
knighthood. My lords, said Bleoberis, I will right well as ye
will.
Then the kings called the King of Ireland, and found him goodly
and treatable. And then, by all their advices, Sir Tristram and
Sir Bleoberis took up Sir Blamore, and the two brethren were
accorded with King Anguish, and kissed and made friends for ever.
And then Sir Blamore and Sir Tristram kissed together, and there
they made their oaths that they would never none of them two
brethren fight with Sir Tristram, and Sir Tristram made the same
oath. And for that gentle battle all the blood of Sir Launcelot
loved Sir Tristram for ever.
Then King Anguish and Sir Tristram took their leave, and sailed
into Ireland with great noblesse and joy. So when they were in
Ireland the king let make it known throughout all the land how
and in what manner Sir Tristram had done for him. Then the queen
and all that there were made the most of him that they might.
But the joy that La Beale Isoud made of Sir Tristram there might
no tongue tell, for of all men earthly she loved him most.
<318>
CHAPTER XXIV
How Sir Tristram demanded La Beale Isoud for King Mark,
and how Sir Tristram and Isoud drank the love drink.
THEN upon a day King Anguish asked Sir Tristram why he asked not
his boon, for whatsomever he had promised him he should have it
without fail. Sir, said Sir Tristram, now is it time; this is
all that I will desire, that ye will give me La Beale Isoud, your
daughter, not for myself, but for mine uncle, King Mark, that
shall have her to wife, for so have I promised him. Alas, said
the king, I had liefer than all the land that I have ye would wed
her yourself. Sir, an I did then I were shamed for ever in this
world, and false of my promise. Therefore, said Sir I Tristram,
I pray you hold your promise that ye promised me; for this is my
desire, that ye will give me La Beale Isoud to go with me into
Cornwall for to be wedded to King Mark, mine uncle. As for that,
said King Anguish, ye shall have her with you to do with her what
it please you; that is for to say if that ye list to wed her
yourself, that is me liefest, and if ye will give her unto King
Mark, your uncle, that is in your choice. So, to make short
conclusion, La Beale Isoud was made ready to go with Sir
Tristram, and Dame Bragwaine went with her for her chief
gentlewoman, with many other.
Then the queen, Isoud's mother, gave to her and Dame Bragwaine,
her daughter's gentlewoman, and unto Gouvernail, a drink, and
charged them that what day King Mark should wed, that same day
they should give him that drink, so that King Mark should drink
to La Beale Isoud, and then, said the queen, I undertake either
shall love other the days of their life. So this drink was given
unto Dame Bragwaine, and unto Gouvernail. And then anon Sir
Tristram took the sea, and La Beale Isoud; and when they were in
their cabin, it happed so that they were thirsty, and they saw a
little flasket of gold stand by <319>them, and it seemed by the
colour and the taste that it was noble wine. Then Sir Tristram
took the flasket in his hand, and said, Madam Isoud, here is the
best drink that ever ye drank, that Dame Bragwaine, your maiden,
and Gouvernail, my servant, have kept for themselves. Then they
laughed and made good cheer, and either drank to other freely,
and they thought never drink that ever they drank to other was so
sweet nor so good. But by that their drink was in their bodies,
they loved either other so well that never their love departed
for weal neither for woe. And thus it happed the love first
betwixt Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud, the which love never
departed the days of their life.
So then they sailed till by fortune they came nigh a castle that
hight Pluere, and thereby arrived for to repose them, weening to
them to have had good harbourage. But anon as Sir Tristram was
within the castle they were taken prisoners; for the custom of
the castle was such; who that rode by that castle and brought any
lady, he must needs fight with the lord, that hight Breunor. And
if it were so that Breunor won the field, then should the knight
stranger and his lady be put to death, what that ever they were;
and if it were so that the strange knight won the field of Sir
Breunor, then should he die and his lady both. This custom was
used many winters, for it was called the Castle Pluere, that is
to say the Weeping Castle.
CHAPTER XXV
How Sir Tristram and Isoud were in prison, and how he
fought for her beauty, and smote of another lady's head.
THUS as Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud were in prison, it happed
a knight and a lady came unto them where they were, to cheer
them. I have marvel, said Tristram unto the knight and the lady,
what is the cause the lord of this castle holdeth us in prison:
it was never the custom of no <320>place of worship that ever I
came in, when a knight and a lady asked harbour, and they to
receive them, and after to destroy them that be his guests. Sir,
said the knight, this is the old custom of this castle, that when
a knight cometh here he must needs fight with our lord, and he
that is weaker must lose his head. And when that is done, if his
lady that he bringeth be fouler than our lord's wife, she must
lose her head: and if she be fairer proved than is our lady, then
shall the lady of this castle lose her head. So God me help,
said Sir Tristram, this is a foul custom and a shameful. But one
advantage have I, said Sir Tristram, I have a lady is fair
enough, fairer saw I never in all my life-days, and I doubt not
for lack of beauty she shall not lose her head; and rather than I
should lose my head I will fight for it on a fair field.
Wherefore, sir knight, I pray you tell your lord that I will be
ready as to-morn with my lady, and myself to do battle, if it be
so I may have my horse and mine armour. Sir, said that knight, I
undertake that your desire shall be sped right well. And then he
said: Take your rest, and look that ye be up betimes and make
you ready and your lady, for ye shall want no thing that you
behoveth. And therewith he departed, and on the morn betimes
that same knight came to Sir Tristram, and fetched him out and
his lady, and brought him horse and armour that was his own, and
bade him make him ready to the field, for all the estates and
commons of that lordship were there ready to behold that battle
and judgment.
Then came Sir Breunor, the lord of that castle, with his lady in
his hand, muffled, and asked Sir Tristram where was his lady:
For an thy lady be fairer than mine, with thy sword smite off my
lady's head; and if my lady be fairer than thine, with my sword I
must strike off her head. And if I may win thee, yet shall thy
lady be mine, and thou shalt lose thy head. Sir, said Tristram,
this is a foul custom and horrible; and rather than my lady
should lose her head, yet had I liefer lose my head. Nay, nay,
said Sir Breunor, the ladies shall be first showed together, and
the one shall have her judgment. Nay, I <321>will not so, said
Sir Tristram, for here is none that will give righteous judgment.
But I doubt not, said Sir Tristram, my lady is fairer than thine,
and that will I prove and make good with my hand. And whosomever
he be that will say the contrary I will prove it on his head.
And therewith Sir Tristram showed La Beale Isoud, and turned her
thrice about with his naked sword in his hand. And when Sir
Breunor saw that, he did the same wise turn his lady. But when
Sir Breunor beheld La Beale Isoud, him thought he saw never a
fairer lady, and then he dread his lady's head should be off.
And so all the people that were there present gave judgment that
La Beale Isoud was the fairer lady and the better made. How now,
said Sir Tristram, meseemeth it were pity that my lady should
lose her head, but because thou and she of long time have used
this wicked custom, and by you both have many good knights and
ladies been destroyed, for that cause it were no loss to destroy
you both. So God me help, said Sir Breunor, for to say the
sooth, thy lady is fairer than mine, and that me sore repenteth.
And so I hear the people privily say, for of all women I saw none
so fair; and therefore, an thou wilt slay my lady, I doubt not
but I shall slay thee and have thy lady. Thou shalt win her,
said Sir Tristram, as dear as ever knight won lady. And because
of thine own judgment, as thou wouldst have done to my lady if
that she had been fouler, and because of the evil custom, give me
thy lady, said Sir Tristram. And therewithal Sir Tristram strode
unto him and took his lady from him, and with an awk stroke he
smote off her head clean. Well, knight, said Sir Breunor, now
hast thou done me a despite; [*8]now take thine horse: sithen I
am ladyless I will win thy lady an I may.
[*8] Printed by Caxton as part of chap. xxvi.
<322>
CHAPTER XXVI
How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Breunor, and at the
last smote off his head.
THEN they took their horses and came together as it had been the
thunder; and Sir Tristram smote Sir Breunor clean from his horse,
and lightly he rose up; and as Sir Tristram came again by him he
thrust his horse throughout both the shoulders, that his horse
hurled here and there and fell dead to the ground. And ever Sir
Breunor ran after to have slain Sir Tristram, but Sir Tristram
was light and nimble, and voided his horse lightly. And or ever
Sir Tristram might dress his shield and his sword the other gave
him three or four sad strokes. Then they rushed together like
two boars, tracing and traversing mightily and wisely as two
noble knights. For this Sir Breunor was a proved knight, and had
been or then the death of many good knights, that it was pity
that he had so long endured.
Thus they fought, hurling here and there nigh two hours, and
either were wounded sore. Then at the last Sir Breunor rashed
upon Sir Tristram and took him in his arms, for he trusted much
in his strength. Then was Sir Tristram called the strongest and
the highest knight of the world; for he was called bigger than
Sir Launcelot, but Sir Launcelot was better breathed. So anon
Sir Tristram thrust Sir Breunor down grovelling, and then he
unlaced his helm and struck off his head. And then all they that
longed to the castle came to him, and did him homage and fealty,
praying him that he would abide there still a little while to
fordo that foul custom. Sir Tristram granted thereto. The
meanwhile one of the knights of the castle rode unto Sir Galahad,
the haut prince, the which was Sir Breunor's son, which was a
noble knight, and told him what misadventure his father had and
his mother.
<323>
CHAPTER XXVII
How Sir Galahad fought with Sir Tristram, and how Sir
Tristram yielded him and promised to fellowship with Launcelot.
THEN came Sir Galahad, and the King with the Hundred Knights with
him; and this Sir Galahad proffered to fight with Sir Tristram
hand for hand. And so they made them ready to go unto battle on
horseback with great courage. Then Sir Galahad and Sir Tristram
met together so hard that either bare other down, horse and all,
to the earth. And then they avoided their horses as noble
knights, and dressed their shields, and drew their swords with
ire and rancour, and they lashed together many sad strokes, and
one while striking, another while foining, tracing and traversing
as noble knights; thus they fought long, near half a day, and
either were sore wounded. At the last Sir Tristram waxed light
and big, and doubled his strokes, and drove Sir Galahad aback on
the one side and on the other, so that he was like to have been
slain.
With that came the King with the Hundred Knights, and all that
fellowship went fiercely upon Sir Tristram. When Sir Tristram
saw them coming upon him, then he wist well he might not endure.
Then as a wise knight of war, he said to Sir Galahad, the haut
prince: Sir, ye show to me no knighthood, for to suffer all your
men to have ado with me all at once; and as meseemeth ye be a
noble knight of your hands it is great shame to you. So God me
help, said Sir Galahad, there is none other way but thou must
yield thee to me, other else to die, said Sir Galahad to Sir
Tristram. I will rather yield me to you than die for that is
more for the might of your men than of your hands. And
therewithal Sir Tristram took his own sword by the point, and put
the pommel in the hand of Sir Galahad.
Therewithal came the King with the Hundred Knights, <324>and hard
began to assail Sir Tristram. Let be, said Sir Galahad, be ye
not so hardy to touch him, for I have given this knight his life.
That is your shame, said the King with the Hundred Knights; hath
he not slain your father and your mother? As for that, said Sir
Galahad, I may not wite him greatly, for my father had him in
prison, and enforced him to do battle with him; and my father had
such a custom that was a shameful custom, that what knight came
there to ask harbour his lady must needs die but if she were
fairer than my mother; and if my father overcame that knight he
must needs die. This was a shameful custom and usage, a knight
for his harbour-asking to have such harbourage. And for this
custom I would never draw about him. So God me help, said the
King, this was a shameful custom. Truly, said Sir Galahad, so
seemed me; and meseemed it had been great pity that this knight
should have been slain, for I dare say he is the noblest man that
beareth life, but if it were Sir Launcelot du Lake. Now, fair
knight, said Sir Galahad, I require thee tell me thy name, and of
whence thou art, and whither thou wilt. Sir, he said, my name is
Sir Tristram de Liones, and from King Mark of Cornwall I was sent
on message unto King Anguish of Ireland, for to fetch his
daughter to be his wife, and here she is ready to go with me into
Cornwall, and her name is La Beale Isoud. And, Sir Tristram,
said Sir Galahad, the haut prince, well be ye found in these
marches, and so ye will promise me to go unto Sir Launcelot du
Lake, and accompany with him, ye shall go where ye will, and your
fair lady with you; and I shall promise you never in all my days
shall such customs be used in this castle as have been used.
Sir, said Sir Tristram, now I let you wit, so God me help, I
weened ye had been Sir Launcelot du Lake when I saw you first,
and therefore I dread you the more; and sir, I promise you, said
Sir Tristram, as soon as I may I will see Sir Launcelot and
infellowship me with him; for of all the knights of the world I
most desire his fellowship.
<325>
CHAPTER XXVIII
How Sir Launcelot met with Sir Carados bearing away
Sir Gawaine, and of the rescue of Sir Gawaine.
AND then Sir Tristram took his leave when he saw his time, and
took the sea. And in the meanwhile word came unto Sir Launcelot
and to Sir Tristram that Sir Carados, the mighty king, that was
made like a giant, fought with Sir Gawaine, and gave him such
strokes that he swooned in his saddle, and after that he took him
by the collar and pulled him out of his saddle, and fast bound
him to the saddle-bow, and so rode his way with him toward his
castle. And as he rode, by fortune Sir Launcelot met with Sir
Carados, and anon he knew Sir Gawaine that lay bound after him.
Ah, said Sir Launcelot unto Sir Gawaine, how stands it with you?
Never so hard, said Sir Gawaine, unless that ye help me, for so
God me help, without ye rescue me I know no knight that may, but
outher you or Sir Tristram. Wherefore Sir Launcelot was heavy of
Sir Gawaine's words. And then Sir Launcelot bade Sir Carados:
Lay down that knight and fight with me. Thou art but a fool,
said Sir Carados, for I will serve you in the same wise. As for
that, said Sir Launcelot, spare me not, for I warn thee I will
not spare thee. And then he bound Sir Gawaine hand and foot, and
so threw him to the ground. And then he gat his spear of his
squire, and departed from Sir Launcelot to fetch his course. And
so either met with other, and brake their spears to their hands;
and then they pulled out swords, and hurtled together on
horseback more than an hour. And at the last Sir Launcelot smote
Sir Carados such a buffet upon the helm that it pierced his
brain-pan. So then Sir Launcelot took Sir Carados by the collar
and pulled him under his horse's feet, and then he alighted and
pulled off his helm and struck off his head. And then Sir
Launcelot unbound Sir Gawaine. So this same tale <326>was told
to Sir Galahad and to Sir Tristram:--here may ye hear the
nobleness that followeth Sir Launcelot. Alas, said Sir Tristram,
an I had not this message in hand with this fair lady, truly I
would never stint or I had found Sir Launcelot. Then Sir
Tristram and La Beale Isoud went to the sea and came into
Cornwall, and there all the barons met them.
CHAPTER XXIX
Of the wedding of King Mark to La Beale Isoud, and of
Bragwaine her maid, and of Palamides.
AND anon they were richly wedded with great noblesse. But ever,
as the French book saith, Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud loved
ever together. Then was there great jousts and great tourneying,
and many lords and ladies were at that feast, and Sir Tristram
was most praised of all other. Thus dured the feast long, and
after the feast was done, within a little while after, by the
assent of two ladies that were with Queen Isoud, they ordained
for hate and envy for to destroy Dame Bragwaine, that was maiden
and lady unto La Beale Isoud; and she was sent into the forest
for to fetch herbs, and there she was met, and bound feet and
hand to a tree, and so she was bounden three days. And by
fortune, Sir Palamides found Dame Bragwaine, and there he
delivered her from the death, and brought her to a nunnery there
beside, for to be recovered. When Isoud the queen missed her
maiden, wit ye well she was right heavy as ever was any queen,
for of all earthly women she loved her best: the cause was for
she came with her out of her country. And so upon a day Queen
Isoud walked into the forest to put away her thoughts, and there
she went herself unto a well and made great moan. And suddenly
there came Palamides to her, and had heard all her complaint, and
said: Madam Isoud, an ye will grant me my boon, I shall bring to
you Dame Bragwaine safe and sound. And the queen was so glad of
his proffer that <327>suddenly unadvised she granted all his
asking. Well, Madam, said Palamides, I trust to your promise,
and if ye will abide here half an hour I shall bring her to you.
I shall abide you, said La Beale Isoud. And Sir Palamides rode
forth his way to that nunnery, and lightly he came again with
Dame Bragwaine; but by her good will she would not have come
again, because for love of the queen she stood in adventure of
her life. Notwithstanding, half against her will, she went with
Sir Palamides unto the queen. And when the queen saw her she was
passing glad. Now, Madam, said Palamides, remember upon your
promise, for I have fulfilled my promise. Sir Palamides, said
the queen, I wot not what is your desire, but I will that ye wit,
howbeit I promised you largely, I thought none evil, nor I warn
you none evil will I do. Madam, said Sir Palamides, as at this
time, ye shall not know my desire, but before my lord your
husband there shall ye know that I will have my desire that ye
have promised me. And therewith the queen departed, and rode
home to the king, and Sir Palamides rode after her. And when Sir
Palamides came before the king, he said: Sir King, I require you
as ye be a righteous king, that ye will judge me the right. Tell
me your cause, said the king, and ye shall have right.
CHAPTER XXX
How Palamides demanded Queen Isoud, and how Lambegus
rode after to rescue her, and of the escape of Isoud.
SIR, said Palamides, I promised your Queen Isoud to bring again
Dame Bragwaine that she had lost, upon this covenant, that she
should grant me a boon that I would ask, and without grudging,
outher advisement, she granted me. What say ye, my lady? said
the king. It is as he saith, so God me help, said the queen; to
say thee sooth I promised him his asking for love and joy that I
had to see <328>her. Well, Madam, said the king, and if ye were
hasty to grant him what boon he would ask, I will well that ye
perform your promise. Then, said Palamides, I will that ye wit
that I will have your queen to lead her and govern her whereas me
list. Therewith the king stood still, and bethought him of Sir
Tristram, and deemed that he would rescue her. And then hastily
the king answered: Take her with the adventures that shall fall
of it, for as I suppose thou wilt not enjoy her no while. As for
that, said Palamides, I dare right well abide the adventure. And
so, to make short tale, Sir Palamides took her by the hand and
said: Madam, grudge not to go with me, for I desire nothing but
your own promise. As for that, said the queen, I fear not
greatly to go with thee, howbeit thou hast me at advantage upon
my promise, for I doubt not I shall be worshipfully rescued from
thee. As for that, said Sir Palamides, be it as it be may. So
Queen Isoud was set behind Palamides, and rode his way.
Anon the king sent after Sir Tristram, but in no wise he could be
found, for he was in the forest a-hunting; for that was always
his custom, but if he used arms, to chase and to hunt in the
forests. Alas, said the king, now I am shamed for ever, that by
mine own assent my lady and my queen shall be devoured. Then
came forth a knight, his name was Lambegus, and he was a knight
of Sir Tristram. My lord, said this knight, sith ye have trust
in my lord, Sir Tristram, wit ye well for his sake I will ride
after your queen and rescue her, or else I shall be beaten.
Gramercy, said the king, as I live, Sir Lambegus, I shall deserve
it. And then Sir Lambegus armed him, and rode after as fast as
he might. And then within a while he overtook Sir Palamides.
And then Sir Palamides left the queen. What art thou, said
Palamides, art thou Tristram? Nay, he said, I am his servant,
and my name is Sir Lambegus. That me repenteth, said Palamides.
I had liefer thou hadst been Sir Tristram. I believe you well,
said Lambegus, but when thou meetest with Sir Tristram thou shalt
have thy hands full. And then they hurtled together and all to-
brast their spears, and then they pulled out their <329>swords,
and hewed on helms and hauberks. At the last Sir Palamides gave
Sir Lambegus such a wound that he fell down like a dead knight to
the earth.
Then he looked after La Beale Isoud, and then she was gone he
nist where. Wit ye well Sir Palamides was never so heavy. So
the queen ran into the forest, and there she found a well, and
therein she had thought to have drowned herself. And as good
fortune would, there came a knight to her that had a castle
thereby, his name was Sir Adtherp. And when he found the queen
in that mischief he rescued her, and brought her to his castle.
And when he wist what she was he armed him, and took his horse,
and said he would be avenged upon Palamides; and so he rode on
till he met with him, and there Sir Palamides wounded him sore,
and by force he made him to tell him the cause why he did battle
with him, and how he had led the queen unto his castle. Now
bring me there, said Palamides, or thou shalt die of my hands.
Sir, said Sir Adtherp, I am so wounded I may not follow, but ride
you this way and it shall bring you into my castle, and there
within is the queen. Then Sir Palamides rode still till he came
to the castle. And at a window La Beale Isoud saw Sir Palamides;
then she made the gates to be shut strongly. And when he saw he
might not come within the castle, he put off his bridle and his
saddle, and put his horse to pasture, and set himself down at the
gate like a man that was out of his wit that recked not of
himself.
CHAPTER XXXI
How Sir Tristram rode after Palamides, and how he found
him and fought with him, and by the means of Isoud
the battle ceased.
NOW turn we unto Sir Tristram, that when he was come home and
wist La Beale Isoud was gone with Sir Palamides, wit ye well he
was wroth out of measure. Alas, <330>said Sir Tristram, I am
this day shamed. Then he cried to Gouvernail his man: Haste
thee that I were armed and on horseback, for well I wot Lambegus
hath no might nor strength to withstand Sir Palamides: alas that
I have not been in his stead! So anon as he was armed and horsed
Sir Tristram and Gouvernail rode after into the forest, and
within a while he found his knight Lambegus almost wounded to the
death; and Sir Tristram bare him to a forester, and charged him
to keep him well. And then he rode forth, and there he found Sir
Adtherp sore wounded, and he told him how the queen would have
drowned herself had he not been, and how for her sake and love he
had taken upon him to do battle with Sir Palamides. Where is my
lady? said Sir Tristram. Sir, said the knight, she is sure
enough within my castle, an she can hold her within it.
Gramercy, said Sir Tristram, of thy great goodness. And so he
rode till he came nigh to that castle; and then Sir Tristram saw
where Sir Palamides sat at the gate sleeping, and his horse
pastured fast afore him. Now go thou, Gouvernail, said Sir
Tristram, and bid him awake, and make him ready. So Gouvernail
rode unto him and said: Sir Palamides, arise, and take to thee
thine harness. But he was in such a study he heard not what
Gouvernail said. So Gouvernail came again and told Sir Tristram
he slept, or else he was mad. Go thou again, said Sir Tristram,
and bid him arise, and tell him that I am here, his mortal foe.
So Gouvernail rode again and put upon him the butt of his spear,
and said: Sir Palamides, make thee ready, for wit ye well Sir
Tristram hoveth yonder, and sendeth thee word he is thy mortal
foe.
And therewithal Sir Palamides arose stilly, without words,
and gat his horse, and saddled him and bridled him, and lightly
he leapt upon, and gat his spear in his hand, and either feutred
their spears and hurtled fast together; and there Tristram smote
down Sir Palamides over his horse's tail. Then lightly Sir
Palamides put his shield afore him and drew his sword. And there
began strong battle on both parts, for both they fought for the
love of one lady, and ever she lay on the walls and beheld
<331>them how they fought out of measure, and either were wounded
passing sore, but Palamides was much sorer wounded. Thus they
fought tracing and traversing more than two hours, that well-nigh
for dole and sorrow La Beale Isoud swooned. Alas, she said, that
one I loved and yet do, and the other I love not, yet it were
great pity that I should see Sir Palamides slain; for well I know
by that time the end be done Sir Palamides is but a dead knight:
because he is not christened I would be loath that he should die
a Saracen. And therewithal she came down and besought Sir
Tristram to fight no more. Ah, madam, said he, what mean you,
will ye have me shamed? Well ye know I will be ruled by you. I
will not your dishonour, said La Beale Isoud, but I would that ye
would for my sake spare this unhappy Saracen Palamides. Madam,
said Sir Tristram, I will leave fighting at this time for your
sake. Then she said to Sir Palamides: This shall be your
charge, that thou shalt go out of this country while I am
therein. I will obey your commandment, said Sir Palamides, the
which is sore against my will. Then take thy way, said La Beale
Isoud, unto the court of King Arthur, and there recommend me unto
Queen Guenever, and tell her that I send her word that there be
within this land but four lovers, that is, Sir Launcelot du Lake
and Queen Guenever, and Sir Tristram de Liones and Queen Isoud.
CHAPTER XXXII
How Sir Tristram brought Queen Isoud home, and of the
debate of King Mark and Sir Tristram.
AND so Sir Palamides departed with great heaviness. And Sir
Tristram took the queen and brought her again to King Mark, and
then was there made great joy of her home-coming. Who was
cherished but Sir Tristram! Then Sir Tristram let fetch Sir
Lambegus, his knight, <332>from the forester's house, and it was
long or he was whole, but at the last he was well recovered.
Thus they lived with joy and play a long while. But ever Sir
Andred, that was nigh cousin to Sir Tristram, lay in a watch to
wait betwixt Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud, for to take them
and slander them. So upon a day Sir Tristram talked with La
Beale Isoud in a window, and that espied Sir Andred, and told it
to the King. Then King Mark took a sword in his hand and came to
Sir Tristram, and called him false traitor, and would have
stricken him. But Sir Tristram was nigh him, and ran under his
sword, and took it out of his hand. And then the King cried:
Where are my knights and my men? I charge you slay this traitor.
But at that time there was not one would move for his words.
When Sir Tristram saw that there was not one would be against
him, he shook the sword to the king, and made countenance as
though he would have stricken him. And then King Mark fled, and
Sir Tristram followed him, and smote upon him five or six strokes
flatling on the neck, that he made him to fall upon the nose.
And then Sir Tristram yede his way and armed him, and took his
horse and his man, and so he rode into that forest.
And there upon a day Sir Tristram met with two brethren that were
knights with King Mark, and there he struck off the head of the
one, and wounded the other to the death; and he made him to bear
his brother's head in his helm unto the king, and thirty more
there he wounded. And when that knight came before the king to
say his message, he there died afore the king and the queen.
Then King Mark called his council unto him, and asked advice of
his barons what was best to do with Sir Tristram. Sir, said the
barons, in especial Sir Dinas, the Seneschal, Sir, we will give
you counsel for to send for Sir Tristram, for we will that ye wit
many men will hold with Sir Tristram an he were hard bestead.
And sir, said Sir Dinas, ye shall understand that Sir Tristram is
called peerless and makeless of any Christian knight, and of his
might and hardiness we knew none so good a knight, but if it be
<333>Sir Launcelot du Lake. And if he depart from your court and
go to King Arthur's court, wit ye well he will get him such
friends there that he will not set by your malice. And
therefore, sir, I counsel you to take him to your grace. I will
well, said the king, that he be sent for, that we may be friends.
Then the barons sent for Sir Tristram under a safe conduct. And
so when Sir Tristram came to the king he was welcome, and no
rehearsal was made, and there was game and play. And then the
king and the queen went a-hunting, and Sir Tristram.
CHAPTER XXXIII
How Sir Lamorak jousted with thirty knights, and Sir Tristram
at the request of King Mark smote his horse down.
THE king and the queen made their pavilions and their tents in
that forest beside a river, and there was daily hunting and
jousting, for there were ever thirty knights ready to joust unto
all them that came in at that time. And there by fortune came
Sir Lamorak de Galis and Sir Driant; and there Sir Driant jousted
right well, but at the last he had a fall. Then Sir Lamorak
proffered to joust. And when he began he fared so with the
thirty knights that there was not one of them but that he gave
him a fall, and some of them were sore hurt. I marvel, said King
Mark, what knight he is that doth such deeds of arms. Sir, said
Sir Tristram, I know him well for a noble knight as few now be
living, and his name is Sir Lamorak de Galis. It were great
shame, said the king, that he should go thus away, unless that
some of you meet with him better. Sir, said Sir Tristram,
meseemeth it were no worship for a noble man to have ado with
him: and for because at this time he hath done over much for any
mean knight living, therefore, as meseemeth, it were great shame
and villainy to tempt him any more at this time, insomuch as he
and his horse are weary both; for the <334>deeds of arms that he
hath done this day, an they be well considered, it were enough
for Sir Launcelot du Lake. As for that, said King Mark, I
require you, as ye love me and my lady the queen, La Beale Isoud,
take your arms and joust with Sir Lamorak de Galis. Sir, said
Sir Tristram, ye bid me do a thing that is against knighthood,
and well I can deem that I shall give him a fall, for it is no
mastery, for my horse and I be fresh both, and so is not his
horse and he; and wit ye well that he will take it for great
unkindness, for ever one good knight is loath to take another at
disadvantage; but because I will not displease you, as ye require
me so will I do, and obey your commandment.
And so Sir Tristram armed him and took his horse, and put him
forth, and there Sir Lamorak met him mightily, and what with the
might of his own spear, and of Sir Tristram's spear, Sir
Lamorak's horse fell to the earth, and he sitting in the saddle.
Then anon as lightly as he might he avoided the saddle and his
horse, and put his shield afore him and drew his sword. And then
he bade Sir Tristram: Alight, thou knight, an thou durst. Nay,
said Sir Tristram, I will no more have ado with thee, for I have
done to thee over much unto my dishonour and to thy worship. As
for that, said Sir Lamorak, I can thee no thank; since thou hast
for-jousted me on horseback I require thee and I beseech thee, an
thou be Sir Tristram, fight with me on foot. I will not so, said
Sir Tristram; and wit ye well my name is Sir Tristram de Liones,
and well I know ye be Sir Lamorak de Galis, and this that I have
done to you was against my will, but I was required thereto; but
to say that I will do at your request as at this time, I will
have no more ado with you, for me shameth of that I have done.
As for the shame, said Sir Lamorak, on thy part or on mine, bear
thou it an thou wilt, for though a mare's son hath failed me, now
a queen's son shall not fail thee; and therefore, an thou be such
a knight as men call thee, I require thee, alight, and fight with
me. Sir Lamorak, said Sir Tristram, I understand your heart is
great, and cause why ye have, to <335>say thee sooth; for it
would grieve me an any knight should keep him fresh and then to
strike down a weary knight, for that knight nor horse was never
formed that alway might stand or endure. And therefore, said Sir
Tristram, I will not have ado with you, for me forthinketh of
that I have done. As for that, said Sir Lamorak, I shall quit
you, an ever I see my time.
CHAPTER XXXIV
How Sir Lamorak sent an horn to King Mark in despite of
Sir Tristram, and how Sir Tristram was driven into a chapel.
So he departed from him with Sir Driant, and by the way they met
with a knight that was sent from Morgan le Fay unto King Arthur;
and this knight had a fair horn harnessed with gold, and the horn
had such a virtue that there might no lady nor gentlewoman drink
of that horn but if she were true to her husband, and if she were
false she should spill all the drink, and if she were true to her
lord she might drink peaceable. And because of the Queen
Guenever, and in the despite of Sir Launcelot, this horn was sent
unto King Arthur; and by force Sir Lamorak made that knight to
tell all the cause why he bare that horn. Now shalt thou bear
this horn, said Lamorak, unto King Mark, or else choose thou to
die for it; for I tell thee plainly, in despite and reproof of
Sir Tristram thou shalt bear that horn unto King Mark, his uncle,
and say thou to him that I sent it him for to assay his lady, and
if she be true to him he shall prove her. So the knight went his
way unto King Mark, and brought him that rich horn, and said that
Sir Lamorak sent it him, and thereto he told him the virtue of
that horn. Then the king made Queen Isoud to drink thereof, and
an hundred ladies, and there were but four ladies of all those
that drank clean. Alas, said King Mark, this is <336>a great
despite, and sware a great oath that she should be burnt and the
other ladies.
Then the barons gathered them together, and said plainly they
would not have those ladies burnt for an horn made by sorcery,
that came from as false a sorceress and witch as then was living.
For that horn did never good, but caused strife and debate, and
always in her days she had been an enemy to all true lovers. So
there were many knights made their avow, an ever they met with
Morgan le Fay, that they would show her short courtesy. Also Sir
Tristram was passing wroth that Sir Lamorak sent that horn unto
King Mark, for well he knew that it was done in the despite of
him. And therefore he thought to quite Sir Lamorak.
Then Sir Tristram used daily and nightly to go to Queen Isoud
when he might, and ever Sir Andred his cousin watched him night
and day for to take him with La Beale Isoud. And so upon a night
Sir Andred espied the hour and the time when Sir Tristram went to
his lady. Then Sir Andred gat unto him twelve knights, and at
midnight he set upon Sir Tristram secretly and suddenly and there
Sir Tristram was taken naked abed with La Beale Isoud, and then
was he bound hand and foot, and so was he kept until day. And
then by the assent of King Mark, and of Sir Andred, and of some
of the barons, Sir Tristram was led unto a chapel that stood upon
the sea rocks, there for to take his judgment: and so he was led
bounden with forty knights. And when Sir Tristram saw that there
was none other boot but needs that he must die, then said he:
Fair lords, remember what I have done for the country of
Cornwall, and in what jeopardy I have been in for the weal of you
all; for when I fought for the truage of Cornwall with Sir
Marhaus, the good knight, I was promised for to be better
rewarded, when ye all refused to take the battle; therefore, as
ye be good gentle knights, see me not thus shamefully to die, for
it is shame to all knighthood thus to see me die; for I dare say,
said Sir Tristram, that I never met with no knight but I was as
good as he, or better. Fie upon thee, said Sir <337>Andred,
false traitor that thou art, with thine avaunting; for all thy
boast thou shalt die this day. O Andred, Andred, said Sir
Tristram, thou shouldst be my kinsman, and now thou art to me
full unfriendly, but an there were no more but thou and I, thou
wouldst not put me to death. No! said Sir Andred, and therewith
he drew his sword, and would have slain him.
When Sir Tristram saw him make such countenance he looked upon
both his hands that were fast bounden unto two knights, and
suddenly he pulled them both to him, and unwrast his hands, and
then he leapt unto his cousin, Sir Andred, and wrested his sword
out of his hands; then he smote Sir Andred that he fell to the
earth, and so Sir Tristram fought till that he had killed ten
knights. So then Sir Tristram gat the chapel and kept it
mightily. Then the cry was great, and the people drew fast unto
Sir Andred, mo than an hundred. When Sir Tristram saw the people
draw unto him, he remembered he was naked, and sperd fast the
chapel door, and brake the bars of a window, and so he leapt out
and fell upon the crags in the sea. And so at that time Sir
Andred nor none of his fellows might get to him, at that time.
CHAPTER XXXV
How Sir Tristram was holpen by his men, and of Queen
Isoud which was put in a lazar-cote, and how Tristram was hurt.
SO when they were departed, Gouvernail, and Sir Lambegus, and Sir
Sentraille de Lushon, that were Sir Tristram's men, sought their
master. When they heard he was escaped then they were passing
glad; and on the rocks they found him, and with towels they
pulled him up. And then Sir Tristram asked them where was La
Beale Isoud, for he weened she had been had away of Andred's
people. Sir, said Gouvernail, she is put in a lazar-cote. Alas,
said Sir <338>Tristram, this is a full ungoodly place for such a
fair lady, and if I may she shall not be long there. And so he
took his men and went thereas was La Beale Isoud, and fetched her
away, and brought her into a forest to a fair manor, and Sir
Tristram there abode with her. So the good knight bade his men
go from him: For at this time I may not help you. So they
departed all save Gouvernail. And so upon a day Sir Tristram
yede into the forest for to disport him, and then it happened
that there he fell sleep; and there came a man that Sir Tristram
aforehand had slain his brother, and when this man had found him
he shot him through the shoulder with an arrow, and Sir Tristram
leapt up and killed that man. And in the meantime it was told
King Mark how Sir Tristram and La Beale Isoud were in that same
manor, and as soon as ever he might thither he came with many
knights to slay Sir Tristram. And when he came there he found
him gone; and there he took La Beale Isoud home with him, and
kept her strait that by no means never she might wit nor send
unto Tristram, nor he unto her. And then when Sir Tristram came
toward the old manor he found the track of many horses, and
thereby he wist his lady was gone. And then Sir Tristram took
great sorrow, and endured with great pain long time, for the
arrow that he was hurt withal was envenomed.
Then by the mean of La Beale Isoud she told a lady that was
cousin unto Dame Bragwaine, and she came to Sir Tristram, and
told him that he might not be whole by no means. For thy lady,
La Beale Isoud, may not help thee, therefore she biddeth you
haste into Brittany to King Howel, and there ye shall find his
daughter, Isoud la Blanche Mains, and she shall help thee. Then
Sir Tristram and Gouvernail gat them shipping, and so sailed into
Brittany. And when King Howel wist that it was Sir Tristram he
was full glad of him. Sir, he said, I am come into this country
to have help of your daughter, for it is told me that there is
none other may heal me but she; and so within a while she healed
him.
<339>
CHAPTER XXXVI
How Sir Tristram served in war King Howel of Brittany,
and slew his adversary in the field.
THERE was an earl that hight Grip, and this earl made great war
upon the king, and put the king to the worse, and besieged him.
And on a time Sir Kehydius, that was son to King Howel, as he
issued out he was sore wounded, nigh to the death. Then
Gouvernail went to the king and said: Sir, I counsel you to
desire my lord, Sir Tristram, as in your need to help you. I
will do by your counsel, said the king. And so he yede unto Sir
Tristram, and prayed him in his wars to help him: For my son,
Sir Kehydius, may not go into the field. Sir, said Sir Tristram,
I will go to the field and do what I may. Then Sir Tristram
issued out of the town with such fellowship as he might make, and
did such deeds that all Brittany spake of him. And then, at the
last, by great might and force, he slew the Earl Grip with his
own hands, and more than an hundred knights he slew that day.
And then Sir Tristram was received worshipfully with procession.
Then King Howel embraced him in his arms, and said: Sir
Tristram, all my kingdom I will resign to thee. God defend, said
Sir Tristram, for I am beholden unto you for your daughter's sake
to do for you.
Then by the great means of King Howel and Kehydius his son, by
great proffers, there grew great love betwixt Isoud and Sir
Tristram, for that lady was both good and fair, and a woman of
noble blood and fame. And for because Sir Tristram had such
cheer and riches, and all other pleasaunce that he had, almost he
had forsaken La Beale Isoud. And so upon a time Sir Tristram
agreed to wed Isoud la Blanche Mains. And at the last they were
wedded, and solemnly held their marriage. And so when they were
abed both Sir Tristram remembered him of his old lady La Beale
Isoud. And then he took such a <340>thought suddenly that he was
all dismayed, and other cheer made he none but with clipping and
kissing; as for other fleshly lusts Sir Tristram never thought
nor had ado with her: such mention maketh the French book; also
it maketh mention that the lady weened there had been no pleasure
but kissing and clipping. And in the meantime there was a knight
in Brittany, his name was Suppinabiles, and he came over the sea
into England, and then he came into the court of King Arthur, and
there he met with Sir Launcelot du Lake, and told him of the
marriage of Sir Tristram. Then said Sir Launcelot: Fie upon
him, untrue knight to his lady, that so noble a knight as Sir
Tristram is should be found to his first lady false, La Beale
Isoud, Queen of Cornwall; but say ye him this, said Sir
Launcelot, that of all knights in the world I loved him most, and
had most joy of him, and all was for his noble deeds; and let him
wit the love between him and me is done for ever, and that I give
him warning from this day forth as his mortal enemy.
CHAPTER XXXVII
How Sir Suppinabiles told Sir Tristram how he was defamed
in the court of King Arthur, and of Sir Lamorak.
THEN departed Sir Suppinabiles unto Brittany again, and there he
found Sir Tristram, and told him that he had been in King
Arthur's court. Then said Sir Tristram: Heard ye anything of
me? So God me help, said Sir Suppinabiles, there I heard Sir
Launcelot speak of you great shame, and that ye be a false knight
to your lady and he bade me do you to wit that he will be your
mortal enemy in every place where he may meet you. That me
repenteth, said Tristram, for of all knights I loved to be in his
fellowship. So Sir Tristram made great moan and was ashamed that
noble knights should defame him for the sake of his lady. And in
this meanwhile La Beale <341>Isoud made a letter unto Queen
Guenever, complaining her of the untruth of Sir Tristram, and how
he had wedded the king's daughter of Brittany. Queen Guenever
sent her another letter, and bade her be of good cheer, for she
should have joy after sorrow, for Sir Tristram was so noble a
knight called, that by crafts of sorcery ladies would make such
noble men to wed them. But in the end, Queen Guenever said, it
shall be thus, that he shall hate her, and love you better than
ever he did to-fore.
So leave we Sir Tristram in Brittany, and speak we of Sir Lamorak
de Galis, that as he sailed his ship fell on a rock and perished
all, save Sir Lamorak and his squire; and there he swam mightily,
and fishers of the Isle of Servage took him up, and his squire
was drowned, and the shipmen had great labour to save Sir
Lamorak's life, for all the comfort that they could do.
And the lord of that isle, hight Sir Nabon le Noire, a great
mighty giant. And this Sir Nabon hated all the knights of King
Arthur's, and in no wise he would do them favour. And these
fishers told Sir Lamorak all the guise of Sir Nabon; how there
came never knight of King Arthur's but he destroyed him. And at
the last battle that he did was slain Sir Nanowne le Petite, the
which he put to a shameful death in despite of King Arthur, for
he was drawn limb-meal. That forthinketh me, said Sir Lamorak,
for that knight's death, for he was my cousin; and if I were at
mine ease as well as ever I was, I would revenge his death.
Peace, said the fishers, and make here no words, for or ever ye
depart from hence Sir Nabon must know that ye have been here, or
else we should die for your sake. So that I be whole, said
Lamorak, of my disease that I have taken in the sea, I will that
ye tell him that I am a knight of King Arthur's, for I was never
afeard to reneye my lord.
<342>
CHAPTER XXXVIII
How Sir Tristram and his wife arrived in Wales, and how
he met there with Sir Lamorak.
NOW turn we unto Sir Tristram, that upon a day he took a little
barget, and his wife Isoud la Blanche Mains, with Sir Kehydius
her brother, to play them in the coasts. And when they were from
the land, there was a wind drove them in to the coast of Wales
upon this Isle of Servage, whereas was Sir Lamorak, and there the
barget all to-rove; and there Dame Isoud was hurt; and as well as
they might they gat into the forest, and there by a well he saw
Segwarides and a damosel. And then either saluted other. Sir,
said Segwarides, I know you for Sir Tristram de Liones, the man
in the world that I have most cause to hate, because ye departed
the love between me and my wife; but as for that, said Sir
Segwarides, I will never hate a noble knight for a light lady;
and therefore, I pray you, be my friend, and I will be yours unto
my power; for wit ye well ye are hard bestead in this valley, and
we shall have enough to do either of us to succour other. And
then Sir Segwarides brought Sir Tristram to a lady thereby that
was born in Cornwall, and she told him all the perils of that
valley, and how there came never knight there but he were taken
prisoner or slain. Wit you well, fair lady, said Sir Tristram,
that I slew Sir Marhaus and delivered Cornwall from the truage of
Ireland, and I am he that delivered the King of Ireland from Sir
Blamore de Ganis, and I am he that beat Sir Palamides; and wit ye
well I am Sir Tristram de Liones, that by the grace of God shall
deliver this woful Isle of Servage. So Sir Tristram was well
eased.
Then one told him there was a knight of King Arthur's that was
wrecked on the rocks. What is his name? said Sir Tristram. We
wot not, said the fishers, but he keepeth it no counsel but that
he is a knight of <343>King Arthur's, and by the mighty lord of
this isle he setteth nought. I pray you, said Sir Tristram, an
ye may, bring him hither that I may see him, and if he be any of
the knights of Arthur's I shall know him. Then the lady prayed
the fishers to bring him to her place. So on the morrow they
brought him thither in a fisher's raiment; and as soon as Sir
Tristram saw him he smiled upon him and knew him well, but he
knew not Sir Tristram. Fair sir, said Sir Tristram, meseemeth by
your cheer ye have been diseased but late, and also methinketh I
should know you heretofore. I will well, said Sir Lamorak, that
ye have seen me and met with me. Fair sir, said Sir Tristram,
tell me your name. Upon a covenant I will tell you, said Sir
Lamorak, that is, that ye will tell me whether ye be lord of this
island or no, that is called Nabon le Noire. Forsooth, said Sir
Tristram, I am not he, nor I hold not of him; I am his foe as
well as ye be, and so shall I be found or I depart out of this
isle. Well, said Sir Lamorak, since ye have said so largely unto
me, my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis, son unto King Pellinore.
Forsooth, I trow well, said Sir Tristram, for an ye said other I
know the contrary. What are ye, said Sir Lamorak, that knoweth
me? I am Sir Tristram de Liones. Ah, sir, remember ye not of
the fall ye did give me once, and after ye refused me to fight on
foot. That was not for fear I had of you, said Sir Tristram, but
me shamed at that time to have more ado with you, for meseemed ye
had enough; but, Sir Lamorak, for my kindness many ladies ye put
to a reproof when ye sent the horn from Morgan le Fay to King
Mark, whereas ye did this in despite of me. Well, said he, an it
were to do again, so would I do, for I had liefer strife and
debate fell in King Mark's court rather than Arthur's court, for
the honour of both courts be not alike. As to that, said Sir
Tristram, I know well; but that that was done it was for despite
of me, but all your malice, I thank God, hurt not greatly.
Therefore, said Sir Tristram, ye shall leave all your malice, and
so will I, and let us assay how we may win worship between you
and me upon this giant Sir Nabon le <344>Noire that is lord of
this island, to destroy him. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, now I
understand your knighthood, it may not be false that all men say,
for of your bounty, noblesse, and worship, of all knights ye are
peerless, and for your courtesy and gentleness I showed you
ungentleness, and that now me repenteth.
CHAPTER XXXIX
How Sir Tristram fought with Sir Nabon, and overcame
him, and made Sir Segwarides lord of the isle.
IN the meantime there came word that Sir Nabon had made a cry
that all the people of that isle should be at his castle the
fifth day after. And the same day the son of Nabon should be
made knight, and all the knights of that valley and thereabout
should be there to joust, and all those of the realm of Logris
should be there to joust with them of North Wales: and thither
came five hundred knights, and they of the country brought
thither Sir Lamorak, and Sir Tristram, and Sir Kehydius, and Sir
Segwarides, for they durst none otherwise do; and then Sir Nabon
lent Sir Lamorak horse and armour at Sir Lamorak's desire, and
Sir Lamorak jousted and did such deeds of arms that Nabon and all
the people said there was never knight that ever they saw do such
deeds of arms; for, as the French book saith, he for-jousted all
that were there, for the most part of five hundred knights, that
none abode him in his saddle.
Then Sir Nabon proffered to play with him his play: For I saw
never no knight do so much upon a day. I will well, said Sir
Lamorak, play as I may, but I am weary and sore bruised. And
there either gat a spear, but Nabon would not encounter with Sir
Lamorak, but smote his horse in the forehead, and so slew him;
and then Sir Lamorak yede on foot, and turned his shield and drew
his sword, and there began strong battle on foot. But Sir
<345>Lamorak was so sore bruised and short breathed, that he
traced and traversed somewhat aback. Fair fellow, said Sir
Nabon, hold thy hand and I shall show thee more courtesy than
ever I showed knight, because I have seen this day thy noble
knighthood, and therefore stand thou by, and I will wit whether
any of thy fellows will have ado with me. Then when Sir Tristram
heard that, he stepped forth and said: Nabon, lend me horse and
sure armour, and I will have ado with thee. Well, fellow, said
Sir Nabon, go thou to yonder pavilion, and arm thee of the best
thou findest there, and I shall play a marvellous play with thee.
Then said Sir Tristram: Look ye play well, or else peradventure
I shall learn you a new play. That is well said, fellow, said
Sir Nabon. So when Sir Tristram was armed as him liked best, and
well shielded and sworded, he dressed to him on foot; for well he
knew that Sir Nabon would not abide a stroke with a spear,
therefore he would slay all knights' horses. Now, fair fellow,
Sir Nabon, let us play. So then they fought long on foot,
tracing and traversing, smiting and foining long without any
rest. At the last Sir Nabon prayed him to tell him his name.
Sir Nabon, I tell thee my name is Sir Tristram de Liones, a
knight of Cornwall under King Mark. Thou art welcome, said Sir
Nabon, for of all knights I have most desired to fight with thee
or with Sir Launcelot.
So then they went eagerly together, and Sir Tristram slew Sir
Nabon, and so forthwith he leapt to his son, and struck off his
head; and then all the country said they would hold of Sir
Tristram. Nay, said Sir Tristram, I will not so; here is a
worshipful knight, Sir Lamorak de Galis, that for me he shall be
lord of this country, for he hath done here great deeds of arms.
Nay, said Sir Lamorak, I will not be lord of this country, for I
have not deserved it as well as ye, therefore give ye it where ye
will, for I will none have. Well, said Sir Tristram, since ye
nor I will not have it, let us give it to him that hath not so
well deserved it. Do as ye list, said Segwarides, for the gift
is yours, for I will none have an I had deserved it. So was it
given to Segwarides, whereof he thanked <346>them; and so was he
lord, and worshipfully he did govern it. And then Sir Segwarides
delivered all prisoners, and set good governance in that valley;
and so he returned into Cornwall, and told King Mark and La Beale
Isoud how Sir Tristram had advanced him to the Isle of Servage,
and there he proclaimed in all Cornwall of all the adventures of
these two knights, so was it openly known. But full woe was La
Beale Isoud when she heard tell that Sir Tristram was wedded to
Isoud la Blanche Mains.
CHAPTER XL
How Sir Lamorak departed from Sir Tristram, and how
he met with Sir Frol, and after with Sir Launcelot.
SO turn we unto Sir Lamorak, that rode toward Arthur's court, and
Sir Tristram's wife and Kehydius took a vessel and sailed into
Brittany, unto King Howel, where he was welcome. And when he
heard of these adventures they marvelled of his noble deeds. Now
turn we unto Sir Lamorak, that when he was departed from Sir
Tristram he rode out of the forest, till he came to an hermitage.
When the hermit saw him, he asked him from whence he came. Sir,
said Sir Lamorak, I come from this valley. Sir, said the hermit:
thereof I marvel. For this twenty winter I saw never no knight
pass this country but he was either slain or villainously
wounded, or pass as a poor prisoner. Those ill customs, said Sir
Lamorak, are fordone, for Sir Tristram slew your lord, Sir Nabon,
and his son. Then was the hermit glad, and all his brethren, for
he said there was never such a tyrant among Christian men. And
therefore, said the hermit, this valley and franchise we will
hold of Sir Tristram.
So on the morrow Sir Lamorak departed; and as he rode he saw four
knights fight against one, and that one knight defended him well,
but at the last the four knights had him down. And then Sir
Lamorak went betwixt them, and asked them why they would slay
that one <347>knight, and said it was shame, four against one.
Thou shalt well wit, said the four knights, that he is false.
That is your tale, said Sir Lamorak, and when I hear him also
speak, I will say as ye say. Then said Lamorak: Ah, knight, can
ye not excuse you, but that ye are a false knight. Sir, said he,
yet can I excuse me both with my word and with my hands, that I
will make good upon one of the best of them, my body to his body.
Then spake they all at once: We will not jeopardy our bodies as
for thee. But wit thou well, they said, an King Arthur were here
himself, it should not lie in his power to save his life. That
is too much said, said Sir Lamorak, but many speak behind a man
more than they will say to his face; and because of your words ye
shall understand that I am one of the simplest of King Arthur's
court; in the worship of my lord now do your best, and in despite
of you I shall rescue him. And then they lashed all at once to
Sir Lamorak, but anon at two strokes Sir Lamorak had slain two of
them, and then the other two fled. So then Sir Lamorak turned
again to that knight, and asked him his name. Sir, he said, my
name is Sir Frol of the Out Isles. Then he rode with Sir Lamorak
and bare him company.
And as they rode by the way they saw a seemly knight riding
against them, and all in white. Ah, said Frol, yonder knight
jousted late with me and smote me down, therefore I will joust
with him. Ye shall not do so, said Sir Lamorak, by my counsel,
an ye will tell me your quarrel, whether ye jousted at his
request, or he at yours. Nay, said Sir Frol, I jousted with him
at my request. Sir, said Lamorak, then will I counsel you deal
no more with him, for meseemeth by his countenance he should be a
noble knight, and no japer; for methinketh he should be of the
Table Round. Therefore I will not spare, said Sir Frol. And
then he cried and said: Sir knight, make thee ready to joust.
That needeth not, said the White Knight, for I have no lust to
joust with thee; but yet they feutred their spears, and the White
Knight overthrew Sir Frol, and then he rode his way a <348>soft
pace. Then Sir Lamorak rode after him, and prayed him to tell
him his name: For meseemeth ye should be of the fellowship of
the Round Table. Upon a covenant, said he, I will tell you my
name, so that ye will not discover my name, and also that ye will
tell me yours. Then, said he, my name is Sir Lamorak de Galis.
And my name is Sir Launcelot du Lake. Then they put up their
swords, and kissed heartily together, and either made great joy
of other. Sir, said Sir Lamorak, an it please you I will do you
service. God defend, said Launcelot, that any of so noble a
blood as ye be should do me service. Then he said: More, I am
in a quest that I must do myself alone. Now God speed you, said
Sir Lamorak, and so they departed. Then Sir Lamorak came to Sir
Frol and horsed him again. What knight is that? said Sir Frol.
Sir, he said, it is not for you to know, nor it is no point of my
charge. Ye are the more uncourteous, said Sir Frol, and
therefore I will depart from you. Ye may do as ye list, said Sir
Lamorak, and yet by my company ye have saved the fairest flower
of your garland; so they departed.
CHAPTER XLI
How Sir Lamorak slew Sir Frol, and of the courteous
fighting with Sir Belliance his brother.
THEN within two or three days Sir Lamorak found a knight at a
well sleeping, and his lady sat with him and waked. Right so
came Sir Gawaine and took the knight's lady, and set her up
behind his squire. So Sir Lamorak rode after Sir Gawaine, and
said: Sir Gawaine, turn again. And then said Sir Gawaine: What
will ye do with me? for I am nephew unto King Arthur. Sir, said
he, for that cause I will spare you, else that lady should abide
with me, or else ye should joust with me. Then Sir Gawaine
turned him and ran to him that ought the lady, with his spear,
but the knight with pure might smote <349>down Sir Gawaine, and
took his lady with him. All this Sir Lamorak saw, and said to
himself: But I revenge my fellow he will say of me dishonour in
King Arthur's court. Then Sir Lamorak returned and proffered
that knight to joust. Sir, said he, I am ready. And there they
came together with all their might, and there Sir Lamorak smote
the knight through both sides that he fell to the earth dead.
Then that lady rode to that knight's brother that hight Belliance
le Orgulus, that dwelt fast thereby, and then she told him how
his brother was slain. Alas, said he, I will be revenged. And
so he horsed him, and armed him, and within a while he overtook
Sir Lamorak, and bade him: Turn and leave that lady, for thou
and I must play a new play; for thou hast slain my brother Sir
Frol, that was a better knight than ever wert thou. It might
well be, said Sir Lamorak, but this day in the field I was found
the better. So they rode together, and unhorsed other, and
turned their shields, and drew their swords, and fought mightily
as noble knights proved, by the space of two hours. So then Sir
Belliance prayed him to tell him his name. Sir, said he, my name
is Sir Lamorak de Galis. Ah, said Sir Belliance, thou art the
man in the world that I most hate, for I slew my sons for thy
sake, where I saved thy life, and now thou hast slain my brother
Sir Frol. Alas, how should I be accorded with thee; therefore
defend thee, for thou shalt die, there is none other remedy.
Alas, said Sir Lamorak, full well me ought to know you, for ye
are the man that most have done for me. And therewithal Sir
Lamorak kneeled down, and besought him of grace. Arise, said Sir
Belliance, or else thereas thou kneelest I shall slay thee. That
shall not need, said Sir Lamorak, for I will yield me unto you,
not for fear of you, nor for your strength, but your goodness
maketh me full loath to have ado with you; wherefore I require
you for God's sake, and for the honour of knighthood, forgive me
all that I have offended unto you. Alas, said Belliance, leave
thy kneeling, or else I shall slay thee without mercy.
<350>
Then they yede again unto battle, and either wounded other, that
all the ground was bloody thereas they fought. And at the last
Belliance withdrew him aback and set him down softly upon a
little hill, for he was so faint for bleeding that he might not
stand. Then Sir Lamorak threw his shield upon his back, and
asked him what cheer. Well, said Sir Belliance. Ah, Sir, yet
shall I show you favour in your mal-ease. Ah, Knight Sir
Belliance, said Sir Lamorak, thou art a fool, for an I had had
thee at such advantage as thou hast done me, I should slay thee;
but thy gentleness is so good and so large, that I must needs
forgive thee mine evil will. And then Sir Lamorak kneeled down,
and unlaced first his umberere, and then his own, and then either
kissed other with weeping tears. Then Sir Lamorak led Sir
Belliance to an abbey fast by, and there Sir Lamorak would not
depart from Belliance till he was whole. And then they sware
together that none of them should never fight against other. So
Sir Lamorak departed and went to the court of King Arthur.
Here leave we of Sir Lamorak and of Sir Tristram.
And here beginneth the history of La Cote Male Taile.
BOOK IX
CHAPTER I
How a young man came into the court of King Arthur, and
how Sir Kay called him in scorn La Cote Male Taile.
AT the court of King Arthur there came a young man and bigly
made, and he was richly beseen: and he desired to be made knight
of the king, but his over-garment sat over-thwartly, howbeit it
was rich cloth of gold. What is your name? said King Arthur.
Sir, said he, my name is Breunor le Noire, and within short space
ye shall know that I am of good kin. It may well be, said Sir
Kay, the Seneschal, but in mockage ye shall be called La Cote
Male Taile, that is as much to say, the evil-shapen coat It is a
great thing that thou askest, said the king; and for what cause
wearest thou that rich coat? tell me, for I can well think for
some cause it is. Sir, he answered, I had a father, a noble
knight, and as he rode a-hunting, upon a day it happed him to lay
him down to sleep; and there came a knight that had been long his
enemy, and when he saw he was fast asleep he all to-hew him; and
this same coat had my father on the same time; and that maketh
this coat to sit so evil upon me, for the strokes be on it as I
found it, and never shall be amended for me. Thus to have my
father's death in remembrance I wear this coat till I be
revenged; and because ye are called the most noblest king of the
world I come to you that ye should make me knight. Sir, said Sir
Lamorak and Sir Gaheris, it were well done to make him knight;
for him <352>beseemeth well of person and of countenance, that he
shall prove a good man, and a good knight, and a mighty; for,
Sir, an ye be remembered, even such one was Sir Launcelot du Lake
when he came first into this court, and full few of us knew from
whence he came; and now is he proved the man of most worship in
the world; and all your court and all your Round Table is by Sir
Launcelot worshipped and amended more than by any knight now
living. That is truth, said the king, and to-morrow at your
request I shall make him knight.
So on the morrow there was an hart found, and thither rode King
Arthur with a company of his knights to slay the hart. And this
young man that Sir Kay named La Cote Male Taile was there left
behind with Queen Guenever; and by sudden adventure there was an
horrible lion kept in a strong tower of stone, and it happened
that he at that time brake loose, and came hurling afore the
queen and her knights. And when the queen saw the lion she cried
and fled, and prayed her knights to rescue her. And there was
none of them all but twelve that abode, and all the other fled.
Then said La Cote Male Taile: Now I see well that all coward
knights be not dead; and therewithal he drew his sword and
dressed him afore the lion. And that lion gaped wide and came
upon him ramping to have slain him. And he then smote him in the
midst of the head such a mighty stroke that it clave his head in
sunder, and dashed to the earth. Then was it told the queen how
the young man that Sir Kay named by scorn La Cote Male Taile had
slain the lion. With that the king came home. And when the
queen told him of that adventure, he was well pleased, and said:
Upon pain of mine head he shall prove a noble man and a faithful
knight, and true of his promise: then the king forthwithal made
him knight. Now Sir, said this young knight, I require you and
all the knights of your court, that ye call me by none other name
but La Cote Male Taile: in so much as Sir Kay hath so named me so
will I be called. I assent me well thereto, said the king.
<353>
CHAPTER II
How a damosel came into the court and desired a knight to
take on him an enquest, which La Cote Male Taile emprised.
THEN that same day there came a damosel into the court, and she
brought with her a great black shield, with a white hand in the
midst holding a sword. Other picture was there none in that
shield. When King Arthur saw her he asked her from whence she
came and what she would. Sir, she said, I have ridden long and
many a day with this shield many ways, and for this cause I am
come to your court: there was a good knight that ought this
shield, and this knight had undertaken a great deed of arms to
enchieve it; and so it misfortuned him another strong knight met
with him by sudden adventure, and there they fought long, and
either wounded other passing sore; and they were so weary that
they left that battle even hand. So this knight that ought this
shield saw none other way but he must die; and then he commanded
me to bear this shield to the court of King Arthur, he requiring
and praying some good knight to take this shield, and that he
would fulfil the quest that he was in. Now what say ye to this
quest? said King Arthur; is there any of you here that will take
upon him to wield this shield? Then was there not one that would
speak one word. Then Sir Kay took the shield in his hands. Sir
knight, said the damosel, what is your name? Wit ye well, said
he, my name is Sir Kay, the Seneschal, that wide-where is known.
Sir, said that damosel, lay down that shield, for wit ye well it
falleth not for you, for he must be a better knight than ye that
shall wield this shield. Damosel, said Sir Kay, wit ye well I
took this shield in my hands by your leave for to behold it, not
to that intent; but go wheresomever thou wilt, for I will not go
with you.
<354>
Then the damosel stood still a great while and beheld many of
those knights. Then spake the knight, La Cote Male Taile: Fair
damosel, I will take the shield and that adventure upon me, so I
wist I should know whitherward my journey might be; for because I
was this day made knight I would take this adventure upon me.
What is your name, fair young man? said the damosel. My name is,
said he, La Cote Male Taile. Well mayest thou be called so, said
the damosel, the knight with the evil-shapen coat; but an thou be
so hardy to take upon thee to bear that shield and to follow me,
wit thou well thy skin shall be as well hewn as thy coat. As for
that, said La Cote Male Taile, when I am so hewn I will ask you
no salve to heal me withal. And forthwithal there came into the
court two squires and brought him great horses, and his armour,
and his spears, and anon he was armed and took his leave. I
would not by my will, said the king, that ye took upon you that
hard adventure. Sir, said he, this adventure is mine, and the
first that ever I took upon me, and that will I follow
whatsomever come of me. Then that damosel departed, and La Cote
Male Taile fast followed after. And within a while he overtook
the damosel, and anon she missaid him in the foulest manner.
CHAPTER III
How La Cote Male Taile overthrew Sir Dagonet the king's
fool, and of the rebuke that he had of the damosel.
THEN Sir Kay ordained Sir Dagonet, King Arthur's fool, to follow
after La Cote Male Taile; and there Sir Kay ordained that Sir
Dagonet was horsed and armed, and bade him follow La Cote Male
Taile and proffer him to joust, and so he did; and when he saw La
Cote Male Taile, he cried and bade him make him ready to joust.
So Sir La Cote Male Taile smote Sir Dagonet over his horse's
croup. Then the damosel mocked La Cote Male Taile, and said:
<355>Fie for shame! now art thou shamed in Arthur's court, when
they send a fool to have ado with thee, and specially at thy
first jousts; thus she rode long, and chid. And within a while
there came Sir Bleoberis, the good knight, and there he jousted
with La Cote Male Taile, and there Sir Bleoberis smote him so
sore, that horse and all fell to the earth. Then La Cote Male
Taile arose up lightly, and dressed his shield, and drew his
sword, and would have done battle to the utterance, for he was
wood wroth. Not so, said Sir Bleoberis de Ganis, as at this time
I will not fight upon foot. Then the damosel Maledisant rebuked
him in the foulest manner, and bade him: Turn again, coward.
Ah, damosel, he said, I pray you of mercy to missay me no more,
my grief is enough though ye give me no more; I call myself never
the worse knight when a mare's son faileth me, and also I count
me never the worse knight for a fall of Sir Bleoberis.
So thus he rode with her two days; and by fortune there came Sir
Palomides and encountered with him, and he in the same wise
served him as did Bleoberis to-forehand. What dost thou here in
my fellowship? said the damosel Maledisant, thou canst not sit no
knight, nor withstand him one buffet, but if it were Sir Dagonet.
Ah, fair damosel, I am not the worse to take a fall of Sir
Palomides, and yet great disworship have I none, for neither
Bleoberis nor yet Palomides would not fight with me on foot. As
for that, said the damosel, wit thou well they have disdain and
scorn to light off their horses to fight with such a lewd knight
as thou art. So in the meanwhile there came Sir Mordred, Sir
Gawaine's brother, and so he fell in the fellowship with the
damosel Maledisant. And then they came afore the Castle
Orgulous, and there was such a custom that there might no knight
come by that castle but either he must joust or be prisoner, or
at the least to lose his horse and his harness. And there came
out two knights against them, and Sir Mordred jousted with the
foremost, and that knight of the castle smote Sir Mordred down
off his horse. And then La Cote Male Taile jousted with that
other, and either of them <356>smote other down, horse and all,
to the earth. And when they avoided their horses, then either of
them took other's horses. And then La Cote Male Taile rode unto
that knight that smote down Sir Mordred, and jousted with him.
And there Sir La Cote Male Taile hurt and wounded him passing
sore, and put him from his horse as he had been dead. So he
turned unto him that met him afore, and he took the flight
towards the castle, and Sir La Cote Male Taile rode after him
into the Castle Orgulous, and there La Cote Male Taile slew him.
CHAPTER IV
How La Cote Male Taile fought against an hundred
knights, and how he escaped by the mean of a lady.
AND anon there came an hundred knights about him and assailed
him; and when he saw his horse should be slain he alighted and
voided his horse, and put the bridle under his feet, and so put
him out of the gate. And when he had so done he hurled in among
them, and dressed his back unto a lady's chamber-wall, thinking
himself that he had liefer die there with worship than to abide
the rebukes of the damosel Maledisant. And in the meantime as he
stood and fought, that lady whose was the chamber went out slily
at her postern, and without the gates she found La Cote Male
Taile's horse, and lightly she gat him by the bridle, and tied
him to the postern. And then she went unto her chamber slily
again for to behold how that one knight fought against an hundred
knights. And when she had beheld him long she went to a window
behind his back, and said: Thou knight, thou fightest wonderly
well, but for all that at the last thou must needs die, but, an
thou canst through thy mighty prowess, win unto yonder postern,
for there have I fastened thy horse to abide thee: but wit thou
well thou must think on thy worship, and think not to die, for
thou mayst not win unto that postern without <357>thou do nobly
and mightily. When La Cote Male Taile heard her say so he
gripped his sword in his hands, and put his shield fair afore
him, and through the thickest press he thrulled through them.
And when he came to the postern he found there ready four
knights, and at two the first strokes he slew two of the knights,
and the other fled; and so he won his horse and rode from them.
And all as it was it was rehearsed in King Arthur's court, how he
slew twelve knights within the Castle Orgulous; and so he rode on
his way.
And in the meanwhile the damosel said to Sir Mordred: I ween my
foolish knight be either slain or taken prisoner: then were they
ware where he came riding. And when he was come unto them he
told all how he had sped and escaped in despite of them all: And
some of the best of them will tell no tales. Thou liest falsely,
said the damosel, that dare I make good, but as a fool and a
dastard to all knighthood they have let thee pass. That may ye
prove, said La Cote Male Taile. With that she sent a courier of
hers, that rode alway with her, for to know the truth of this
deed; and so he rode thither lightly, and asked how and in what
manner that La Cote Male Taile was escaped out of the castle.
Then all the knights cursed him, and said that he was a fiend and
no man: For he hath slain here twelve of our best knights, and
we weened unto this day that it had been too much for Sir
Launcelot du Lake or for Sir Tristram de Liones. And in despite
of us all he is departed from us and maugre our heads.
With this answer the courier departed and came to Maledisant his
lady, and told her all how Sir La Cote Male Taile had sped at the
Castle Orgulous. Then she smote down her head, and said little.
By my head, said Sir Mordred to the damosel, ye are greatly to
blame so to rebuke him, for I warn you plainly he is a good
knight, and I doubt not but he shall prove a noble knight; but as
yet he may not yet sit sure on horseback, for he that shall be a
good horseman it must come of usage and exercise. But when he
cometh to the strokes of his sword <358>he is then noble and
mighty, and that saw Sir Bleoberis and Sir Palomides, for wit ye
well they are wily men of arms, and anon they know when they see
a young knight by his riding, how they are sure to give him a
fall from his horse or a great buffet. But for the most part
they will not light on foot with young knights, for they are
wight and strongly armed. For in likewise Sir Launcelot du Lake,
when he was first made knight, he was often put to the worse upon
horseback, but ever upon foot he recovered his renown, and slew
and defoiled many knights of the Round Table. And therefore the
rebukes that Sir Launcelot did unto many knights causeth them
that be men of prowess to beware; for often I have seen the old
proved knights rebuked and slain by them that were but young
beginners. Thus they rode sure talking by the way together.
CHAPTER V
How Sir Launcelot came to the court and heard of La Cote
Male Taile, and how he followed after him, and how
La Cote Male Taile was prisoner.
HERE leave we off a while of this tale, and speak we of Sir
Launcelot du Lake,[*9] that when he was come to the court of King
Arthur, then heard he tell of the young knight La Cote Male
Taile, how he slew the lion, and how he took upon him the
adventure of the black shield, the which was named at that time
the hardiest adventure of the world. So God me save, said Sir
Launcelot unto many of his fellows, it was shame to all the noble
knights to suffer such a young knight to take such adventure upon
him for his destruction; for I will that ye wit, said Sir
Launcelot, that that damosel Maledisant hath borne that shield
many a day for to seek the most proved knights, and that was she
that Breuse Saunce Pite took that shield from her, and after
Tristram de Liones rescued that shield from him and <359>gave it
to the damosel again, a little afore that time that Sir Tristram
fought with my nephew Sir Blamore de Ganis, for a quarrel that
was betwixt the King of Ireland and him. Then many knights were
sorry that Sir La Cote Male Taile was gone forth to that
adventure. Truly, said Sir Launcelot, I cast me to ride after
him. And within seven days Sir Launcelot overtook La Cote Male
Taile, and then he saluted him and the damosel Maledisant. And
when Sir Mordred saw Sir Launcelot, then he left their
fellowship; and so Sir Launcelot rode with them all a day, and
ever that damosel rebuked La Cote Male Taile; and then Sir
Launcelot answered for him, then she left off, and rebuked Sir
Launcelot.
[*9] Printed by Caxton as part of chap. iv.
So this meantime Sir Tristram sent by a damosel a letter unto Sir
Launcelot, excusing him of the wedding of Isoud la Blanche Mains;
and said in the letter, as he was a true knight he had never ado
fleshly with Isoud la Blanche Mains; and passing courteously and
gentily Sir Tristram wrote unto Sir Launcelot, ever beseeching
him to be his good friend and unto La Beale Isoud of Cornwall,
and that Sir Launcelot would excuse him if that ever he saw her.
And within short time by the grace of God, said Sir Tristram,
that he would speak with La Beale Isoud, and with him right
hastily. Then Sir Launcelot departed from the damosel and from
Sir La Cote Male Taile, for to oversee that letter, and to write
another letter unto Sir Tristram de Liones.
And in the meanwhile La Cote Male Taile rode with the damosel
until they came to a castle that hight Pendragon; and there were
six knights stood afore him, and one of them proffered to joust
with La Cote Male Taile. And there La Cote Male Taile smote him
over his horse's croup. And then the five knights set upon him
all at once with their spears, and there they smote La Cote Male
Taile down, horse and man. And then they alighted suddenly, and
set their hands upon him all at once, and took him prisoner, and
so led him unto the castle and kept him as prisoner.
And on the morn Sir Launcelot arose, and delivered <360>the
damosel with letters unto Sir Tristram, and then he took his way
after La Cote Male Taile; and by the way upon a bridge there was
a knight proffered Sir Launcelot to joust, and Sir Launcelot
smote him down, and then they fought upon foot a noble battle
together, and a mighty; and at the last Sir Launcelot smote him
down grovelling upon his hands and his knees. And then that
knight yielded him, and Sir Launcelot received him fair. Sir,
said the knight, I require thee tell me your name, for much my
heart giveth unto you. Nay, said Sir Launcelot, as at this time
I will not tell you my name, unless then that ye tell me your
name. Certainly, said the knight, my name is Sir Nerovens, that
was made knight of my lord Sir Launcelot du Lake. Ah, Nerovens
de Lile, said Sir Launcelot, I am right glad that ye are proved a
good knight, for now wit ye well my name is Sir Launcelot du
Lake. Alas, said Sir Nerovens de Lile, what have I done! And
therewithal flatling he fell to his feet, and would have kissed
them, but Sir Launcelot would not let him; and then either made
great joy of other. And then Sir Nerovens told Sir Launcelot
that he should not go by the Castle of Pendragon: For there is a
lord, a mighty knight, and many knights with him, and this night
I heard say that they took a knight prisoner yesterday that rode
with a damosel, and they say he is a Knight of the Round Table.
CHAPTER VI
How Sir Launcelot fought with six knights, and after
with Sir Brian, and how he delivered the prisoners.
AH, said Sir Launcelot, that knight is my fellow, and him shall I
rescue or else I shall lose my life therefore. And therewithal
he rode fast till he came before the Castle of Pendragon; and
anon therewithal there came six knights, and all made them ready
to set upon Sir Launcelot at once; then Sir Launcelot feutred his
spear, and smote the <361>foremost that he brake his back in-
sunder, and three of them hit and three failed. And then Sir
Launcelot passed through them, and lightly he turned in again,
and smote another knight through the breast and throughout the
back more than an ell, and therewithal his spear brake. So then
all the remnant of the four knights drew their swords and lashed
at Sir Launcelot. And at every stroke Sir Launcelot bestowed so
his strokes that at four strokes sundry they avoided their
saddles, passing sore wounded; and forthwithal he rode hurling
into that castle.
And anon the lord of the castle, that was that time cleped Sir
Brian de les Isles, the which was a noble man and a great enemy
unto King Arthur, within a while he was armed and upon horseback.
And then they feutred their spears and hurled together so
strongly that both their horses rashed to the earth. And then
they avoided their saddles, and dressed their shields, and drew
their swords, and flang together as wood men, and there were many
strokes given in a while. At the last Sir Launcelot gave to Sir
Brian such a buffet that he kneeled upon his knees, and then Sir
Launcelot rashed upon him, and with great force he pulled off his
helm; and when Sir Brian saw that he should be slain he yielded
him, and put him in his mercy and in his grace. Then Sir
Launcelot made him to deliver all his prisoners that he had
within his castle, and therein Sir Launcelot found of Arthur's
knights thirty, and forty ladies, and so he delivered them; and
then he rode his way. And anon as La Cote Male Taile was
delivered he gat his horse, and his harness, and his damosel
Maledisant.
The meanwhile Sir Nerovens, that Sir Launcelot had foughten
withal afore at the bridge, he sent a damosel after Sir Launcelot
to wit how he sped at the Castle of Pendragon. And then they
within the castle marvelled what knight he was, when Sir Brian
and his knights delivered all those prisoners. Have ye no
marvel, said the damosel, for the best knight in this world was
here, and did this journey, and wit ye well, she said, it was Sir
Launcelot. Then was Sir Brian full glad, and so was his
<362>lady, and all his knights, that such a man should win them.
And when the damosel and La Cote Male Taile understood that it
was Sir Launcelot du Lake that had ridden with them in
fellowship, and that she remembered her how she had rebuked him
and called him coward, then was she passing heavy.
CHAPTER VII
How Sir Launcelot met with the damosel named Male
disant, and named her the Damosel Bienpensant.
SO then they took their horses and rode forth a pace after Sir
Launcelot. And within two mile they overtook him, and saluted
him, and thanked him, and the damosel cried Sir Launcelot mercy
of her evil deed and saying: For now I know the flower of all
knighthood is departed even between Sir Tristram and you. For
God knoweth, said the damosel, that I have sought you my lord,
Sir Launcelot, and Sir Tristram long, and now I thank God I have
met with you; and once at Camelot I met with Sir Tristram, and
there he rescued this black shield with the white hand holding a
naked sword that Sir Breuse Saunce Pite had taken from me. Now,
fair damosel, said Sir Launcelot, who told you my name? Sir,
said she, there came a damosel from a knight that ye fought
withal at the bridge, and she told me your name was Sir Launcelot
du Lake. Blame have she then, said Sir Launcelot, but her lord,
Sir Nerovens, hath told her. But, damosel, said Sir Launcelot,
upon this covenant I will ride with you, so that ye will not
rebuke this knight Sir La Cote Male Taile no more; for he is a
good knight, and I doubt not he shall prove a noble knight, and
for his sake and pity that he should not be destroyed I followed
him to succour him in this great need. Ah, Jesu thank you, said
the damosel, for now I will say unto you and to him both, I
rebuked him never for no hate that I hated him, but for great
<363>love that I had to him. For ever I supposed that he had
been too young and too tender to take upon him these adventures.
And therefore by my will I would have driven him away for
jealousy that I had of his life, for it may be no young knight's
deed that shall enchieve this adventure to the end. Pardieu,
said Sir Launcelot, it is well said, and where ye are called the
Damosel Maledisant I will call you the Damosel Bienpensant.
And so they rode forth a great while unto they came to the border
of the country of Surluse, and there they found a fair village
with a strong bridge like a fortress. And when Sir Launcelot and
they were at the bridge there stert forth afore them of gentlemen
and yeomen many, that said: Fair lords, ye may not pass this
bridge and this fortress because of that black shield that I see
one of you bear, and therefore there shall not pass but one of
you at once; therefore choose you which of you shall enter within
this bridge first. Then Sir Launcelot proffered himself first to
enter within this bridge. Sir, said La Cote Male Taile, I
beseech you let me enter within this fortress, and if I may speed
well I will send for you, and if it happened that I be slain,
there it goeth. And if so be that I am a prisoner taken, then
may ye rescue me. I am loath, said Sir Launcelot, to let you
pass this passage. Sir, said La Cote Male Taile, I pray you let
me put my body in this adventure. Now go your way, said Sir
Launcelot, and Jesu be your speed.
So he entered, and anon there met with him two brethren, the one
hight Sir Plaine de Force, and the other hight Sir Plaine de
Amours. And anon they met with Sir La Cote Male Taile; and first
La Cote Male Taile smote down Plaine de Force, and after he smote
down Plaine de Amours; and then they dressed them to their
shields and swords, and bade La Cote Male Taile alight, and so he
did; and there was dashing and foining with swords, and so they
began to assail full hard La Cote Male Taile, and many great
wounds they gave him upon his head, and upon his breast, and upon
his shoulders. And as he might ever among he gave sad strokes
again. <364>And then the two brethren traced and traversed for
to be of both hands of Sir La Cote Male Taile, but he by fine
force and knightly prowess gat them afore him. And then when he
felt himself so wounded, then he doubled his strokes, and gave
them so many wounds that he felled them to the earth, and would
have slain them had they not yielded them. And right so Sir La
Cote Male Taile took the best horse that there was of them three,
and so rode forth his way to the other fortress and bridge; and
there he met with the third brother whose name was Sir Plenorius,
a full noble knight, and there they jousted together, and either
smote other down, horse and man, to the earth. And then they
avoided their horses, and dressed their shields, and drew their
swords, and gave many sad strokes, and one while the one knight
was afore on the bridge, and another while the other. And thus
they fought two hours and more, and never rested. And ever Sir
Launcelot and the damosel beheld them. Alas, said the damosel,
my knight fighteth passing sore and over long. Now may ye see,
said Sir Launcelot, that he is a noble knight, for to consider
his first battle, and his grievous wounds; and even forthwithal
so wounded as he is, it is marvel that he may endure this long
battle with that good knight.
CHAPTER VIII
How La Cote Male Taile was taken prisoner, and after
rescued by Sir Launcelot, and how Sir Launcelot overcame
four brethren.
THIS meanwhile Sir La Cote Male Taile sank right down upon the
earth, what for-wounded and what for-bled he might not stand.
Then the other knight had pity of him, and said: Fair young
knight, dismay you not, for had ye been fresh when ye met with
me, as I was, I wot well that I should not have endured so long
as ye have done; and <365>therefore for your noble deeds of arms
I shall show to you kindness and gentleness in all that I may.
And forthwithal this noble knight, Sir Plenorius, took him up in
his arms, and led him into his tower. And then he commanded him
the wine, and made to search him and to stop his bleeding wounds.
Sir, said La Cote Male Taile, withdraw you from me, and hie you
to yonder bridge again, for there will meet with you another
manner knight than ever was I. Why, said Plenorius, is there
another manner knight behind of your fellowship? Yea, said La
Cote Male Taile, there is a much better knight than I am. What
is his name? said Plenorius. Ye shall not know for me, said La
Cote Male Taile. Well, said the knight, he shall be encountered
withal whatsomever he be.
Then Sir Plenorius heard a knight call that said: Sir Plenorius,
where art thou? either thou must deliver me the prisoner that
thou hast led unto thy tower, or else come and do battle with me.
Then Plenorius gat his horse, and came with a spear in his hand
walloping toward Sir Launcelot; and then they began to feutre
their spears, and came together as thunder, and smote either
other so mightily that their horses fell down under them. And
then they avoided their horses, and pulled out their swords, and
like two bulls they lashed together with great strokes and foins;
but ever Sir Launcelot recovered ground upon him, and Sir
Plenorius traced to have gone about him. But Sir Launcelot would
not suffer that, but bare him backer and backer, till he came
nigh his tower gate. And then said Sir Launcelot: I know thee
well for a good knight, but wit thou well thy life and death is
in my hand, and therefore yield thee to me, and thy prisoner.
The other answered no word, but struck mightily upon Sir
Launcelot's helm, that the fire sprang out of his eyes. Then Sir
Launcelot doubled his strokes so thick, and smote at him so
mightily, that he made him kneel upon his knees. And therewith
Sir Launcelot leapt upon him, and pulled him grovelling down.
Then Sir Plenorius yielded him, and his tower, and all his
prisoners at his will.
Then Sir Launcelot received him and took his troth; <366>and then
he rode to the other bridge, and there Sir Launcelot jousted with
other three of his brethren, the one hight Pillounes, and the
other hight Pellogris, and the third Sir Pellandris. And first
upon horseback Sir Launcelot smote them down, and afterward he
beat them on foot, and made them to yield them unto him; and then
he returned unto Sir Plenorius, and there he found in his prison
King Carados of Scotland, and many other knights, and all they
were delivered. And then Sir La Cote Male Taile came to Sir
Launcelot, and then Sir Launcelot would have given him all these
fortresses and these bridges. Nay, said La Cote Male Taile, I
will not have Sir Plenorius' livelihood; with that he will grant
you, my lord Sir Launcelot, to come unto King Arthur's court, and
to be his knight, and all his brethren, I will pray you, my lord,
to let him have his livelihood. I will well, said Sir Launcelot,
with this that he will come to the court of King Arthur and
become his man, and his brethren five. And as for you, Sir
Plenorius, I will undertake, said Sir Launcelot, at the next
feast, so there be a place voided, that ye shall be Knight of the
Round Table. Sir, said Plenorius, at the next feast of Pentecost
I will be at Arthur's court, and at that time I will be guided
and ruled as King Arthur and ye will have me. Then Sir Launcelot
and Sir La Cote Male Taile reposed them there, unto the time that
Sir La Cote Male Taile was whole of his wounds, and there they
had merry cheer, and good rest, and many good games, and there
were many fair ladies.
CHAPTER IX
How Sir Launcelot made La Cote Male Taile lord of the
Castle of Pendragon, and after was made knight of the
Round Table.
AND in the meanwhile came Sir Kay, the Seneschal, and Sir
Brandiles, and anon they fellowshipped with them. <367>And then
within ten days, then departed those knights of Arthur's court
from these fortresses. And as Sir Launcelot came by the Castle
of Pendragon there he put Sir Brian de les Isles from his lands,
for cause he would never be withhold with King Arthur; and all
that Castle of Pendragon and all the lands thereof he gave to Sir
La Cote Male Taile. And then Sir Launcelot sent for Nerovens
that he made once knight, and he made him to have all the rule of
that castle and of that country, under La Cote Male Taile; and so
they rode to Arthur's court all wholly together. And at
Pentecost next following there was Sir Plenorius and Sir La Cote
Male Taile, called otherwise by right Sir Breunor le Noire, both
made Knights of the Table Round; and great lands King Arthur gave
them, and there Breunor le Noire wedded that damosel Maledisant.
And after she was called Beauvivante, but ever after for the more
part he was called La Cote Male Taile; and he proved a passing
noble knight, and mighty; and many worshipful deeds he did after
in his life; and Sir Plenorius proved a noble knight and full of
prowess, and all the days of their life for the most part they
awaited upon Sir Launcelot; and Sir Plenorius' brethren were ever
knights of King Arthur. And also, as the French book maketh
mention, Sir La Cote Male Taile avenged his father's death.
CHAPTER X
How La Beale Isoud sent letters to Sir Tristram by her maid
Bragwaine, and of divers adventures of Sir Tristram.
NOW leave we here Sir La Cote Male Taile, and turn we unto Sir
Tristram de Liones that was in Brittany. When La Beale Isoud
understood that he was wedded she sent to him by her maiden
Bragwaine as piteous letters as could be thought and made, and
her conclusion was that, an it pleased Sir Tristram, that he
would come to her <368>court, and bring with him Isoud la Blanche
Mains, and they should be kept as well as she herself. Then Sir
Tristram called unto him Sir Kehydius, and asked him whether he
would go with him into Cornwall secretly. He answered him that
he was ready at all times. And then he let ordain privily a
little vessel, and therein they went, Sir Tristram, Kehydius,
Dame Bragwaine, and Gouvernail, Sir Tristram's squire. So when
they were in the sea a contrarious wind blew them on the coasts
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